Jaap Stam pens new Reading FC contract

JAAP STAM has given Reading fans a huge boost by extending his contract at the club.

The Dutchman, who had one year left on his current deal, enjoyed a memorable first campaign with the Royals, finishing third in the Championship and reaching the play-off final.

And after months of speculation linking him to other jobs, Stam has now put pen-to-paper on a deal tying him to Reading until June 2019.

“My sister and I are absolutely delighted that Jaap Stam has agreed to sign a new contract at Reading Football Club,” said one the club’s two new majority shareholders Dai Yongge.

“We will support Jaap in helping him to build a squad capable of challenging at the top end of the Championship again in 2017-18 and that support will continue throughout the season as we look forward to the challenge of a brand new season.”

Chief executive Nigel Howe, who was today elected to the EFL board, added: “Jaap, Andries and Said signing new contracts is momentous for this football club and a clear demonstration that Reading Football Club is a great place to be right now.

“Akin to the manager, we are a club with fierce ambition and his commitment to the cause offers us the continuity we need to build on last season’s undoubted successes.”